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    Sneak More Veggies Into Dinner With These Easy Tacos

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    Who says veggies have to be boring? These healthy roasted cauliflower tacos bring all the bold flavours of Mexican cuisine with a touch of South African flair, thanks to chef Aiden Pienaar. Cauliflower makes the perfect taco filling – nutrient-rich, low-calorie and seriously tasty. Plus: DYK cauliflower’s not just versatile, but rich in vitamins C, K and folate, too? These goods are antioxidants, keep bones healthy and support healthy pregnancy. “This recipe was inspired by the famous Spanish romesco sauce, which is typically eaten with fish. I wanted to do something a little different, so I worked around my variation of the classic sauce, which is an unusual way of cooking, but we don’t judge here,” says Aiden Pienaar. READ MORE: You Need To Make This Yummy Cauliflower Recipe With A South African TwistMexico in Mzansi by Aiden Pienaar

    Mexico in Mzansi by Aiden Pienaar

    In Mexico in Mzansi, chef Aiden Pienaar brings local flair to some traditional Mexican favourites. Like the ubiquitous taco, this cookbook is filled with a surprising array of flavours and influences to excite even the most experienced chefs and exhausted home cooks.

    By thinking a little outside the box, and using South African ingredients and cooking techniques – boerie tacos and braaied corn, anyone? – Chef Aiden gives Mexican cuisine a Mzansi-style facelift.

    Aiden Pienaar’s Roasted Cauliflower Tacos Recipe

    ‘Roasted’ Cauliflower Tacos

    Aiden Pienaar

    This recipe was inspired by the famous Spanish romesco sauce, which is typically eaten with fish. I wanted to do something a little different, so I worked around my variation of the classic sauce, which is an unusual way of cooking, but we don’t judge here.

    Course dinner, LunchCuisine Mexican, South African

    Servings 6 servings

    Loaded Tacossunflower oil for frying½ small head cauliflower cut into floretssalt to taste60 g green cabbage thinly sliced⅔ cup pico de gallo½ juice of lime6 warm corn tortillasfresh coriander for garnishingRomesco-style Sauce1 whole tomato½ tbsp honey1 tsp chopped garlic1 tsp ground cumin2 whole chipotle chillies in adobo sauce50 ml canola oil½ tsp ground black pepper1 tsp smoked paprika1 tsp salt1½ tbsp lemon juice⅓ cup cashew nuts roasted
    First make the romesco-style sauce. Over an open flame, char the tomato until the skin is blistered and blackened. Place the tomato with the rest of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Keep refrigerated.Heat a little sunflower oil in a heavy-based pot to 180ºC, then fry the cauliflower florets until golden brown. Drain on paper towel and season with salt.Mix the cabbage, pico de gallo and lime juice in a bowl.Fill each taco by placing some of the cabbage salsa along the centre of the tortilla. Top with cauliflower and dollops of romesco sauce. Garnish with fresh coriander. 

    Keyword Tacos

    Easy Healthy Meals For Lazy Summer Days: More

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      3 Healthy Braai Recipes For An Outdoor Summer Feast

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      A summer seafood braai is fresh, healthy and — because it’s so easy — it lets you off the hosting hook, so you can party too!Here’s our take on a sumptuous seafood soirée — by the coals, of course.Ginger Prawn Kebabs RecipeThese flavourful prawn skewers, marinated in a zesty ginger-garlic sauce, are a fantastic starter for any occasion. A quick and easy dish that packs a punch. Tip: Cooking prawns in their shells concentrates the flavour.

      Ginger Prawn Kebabs

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 711kJ, 14g fat (2g sat), 9g carbs, 150mg sodium, 1g fibre, 2g protein

      Course Main Course

      Servings 8Calories 169 kcal

      ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil3 cloves garlic thinly sliced1 tbsp fresh ginger grated1 lemon juice and zest 1 lime juice and zest saltfreshly ground black pepper16 king prawns deveined with shell intact8 small brown onions peeled8 peppadews
      Whisk together oil, garlic, ginger, citrus juice and zest. Season to taste.Thread prawns, onions (halved if necessary) and Peppadews onto eight metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers. Place kebabs in a baking dish and pour ginger mixture over. Marinate at room temperature, turning occasionally, for 10 minutes.Place kebabs on the braai, turning and basting with marinade occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked through (about four minutes).

      Cooking prawns in their shells concentrates the flavour.

      Keyword braai, seafood

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 711kJ, 14g fat (2g sat), 9g carbs, 150mg sodium, 1g fibre, 2g proteinWhole Braai’d Fish RecipeEnjoy a delicious and sustainable seafood dish right off the grill. GO GREEN! Choose from a variety of options like angelfish, dorado, hake, snoek, pole-caught tuna, yellowtail, Alaskan wild salmon, or rainbow trout for a healthy and flavourful meal.

      Whole Braai’d Fish

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 1 003kJ, 14g fat, 4g carbs, 460mg sodium, 1g fibre, 25g protein

      Course Main Course

      Calories 239 kcal

      2 whole salmon or trout (about 1kg each), scaled, gutted and rinsed2 tsp sea salt1 medium onion thinly sliced1 lemon thinly sliced10 sprigs fresh thyme2 tbsp olive oil2 tbsp flour or gluten-free rice flour
      Place fish directly on the grates of a grill preheated to medium. When skin is browned on one side (about eight minutes), use two metal spatulas to loosen and carefully flip each fish. Cook for about 10 minutes more or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fish registers 57°C. Take off grill.Allow fish to cool for five minutes, then remove butcher string and filling before serving.

      Keyword braai, seafood

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 1 003kJ, 14g fat, 4g carbs, 460mg sodium, 1g fibre, 25g proteinWeber Oysters With Toasted Quinoa RecipeIndulge in a gourmet treat with this grilled oyster dish topped with flavourful toasted quinoa. Perfect as a starter or a side for your summer braai.

      Weber Oysters With Toasted Quinoa

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 1 003kJ, 16g fat (4g sat), 11g carbs, 560mg sodium, 1g fibre, 15g protein

      Course Appetizer

      Servings 8Calories 239 kcal

      5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil2 tbsp unsalted butter100g prosciutto thinly sliced2 cloves garlic minced1 lemon juice and zest½ tsp chilli flakes1 cup cooked quinoa¼ tsp salt1 tbsp minced parsleyfreshly ground black pepper16 whole live oysters well rinsed
      Combine olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Sauté prosciutto until crisp. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add lemon juice and zest, chilli flakes, quinoa, salt, parsley and black pepper to taste. Cook over low heat until quinoa is slightly browned and crunchy (about five minutes).Place oysters, cupside up, on the Weber; cover and cook until shells open slightly (about one minute).Using oven mitts, remove oysters from the braai and open the shells with a knife (they should open easily). Spoon quinoa mixture onto each oyster and return to the Weber. Cover and grill for five minutes. Serve immediately.

      Keyword braai, seafood

      SERVES 8. Per serving: 1 003kJ, 16g fat (4g sat), 11g carbs, 560mg sodium, 1g fibre, 15g proteinNeed more braai recipe inspiration? Try these: More

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      in diet and nutrition

      The Potato Flight Trend Is Having A Moment — Here Are 3 Stuffed Potato Recipes You’ll Love

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      If you haven’t caught the #bakedpotatoflight craze yet, it’s time to get on board! TikTok is buzzing over this mouthwatering trend and we’ve got three stuffed baked potato recipes you need to try right now. Created by Naomi Teal, these loaded spuds could cure your hangover, fuel you for the toughest of mornings and power your post-workout recovery. Plus, they’re decadent, delicious — but totally good for you!The Loaded Breakfast This bad boy, with shiitake mushrooms, eggs and asparagus is going to get you going. Shiitake mushrooms are great for its vitamin D and B’s. They also improve energy levels and brain function, reduce inflammation and support your immune system.

      Breakfast Stuffed Potatoes

      Start your day with this loaded breakfast spud. Packed with shiitake mushrooms, eggs and asparagus, it’s the morning boost you need to power through your day.

      Cook Time 45 minutes mins

      Course Breakfast, Lunch

      Servings 1 serving

      1 medium sweet potato40g shiitake mushrooms (sliced)handful of spinach1 tbsp coconut oil4 asparagus2 medium eggspinch of sea salt and pepper
      Bake the sweet potato at 180° for 45 minutes until completely cooked through, once cooked take out and leave the oven on.Prepare a small pan with water and bring to boil. Whilst the sweet potato is baking gently heat the coconut oil in a pan and  add the mushrooms, salt and pepper and cook on a medium heat for 2-3 minutes, take off the heat and throw in the spinach to slightly wilt.Halve your baked sweet potato and spoon out 3 tbsp from each half (still leaving some sweet potato inside), add the mushroom and spinach and then crack open each egg carefully and put into each potato half.Place on a baking tray and place in the oven, cook for 4 minutes for a medium runny yolk.Whilst they are cooking blanch the asparagus in the pan of boiling water for 3 minutes, aldente preferably, then strain. Plate the loaded potato halves and use the asparagus to dip in your yolks — oh yes!

      Keyword Viral Recipes

      READ MORE: Your Ultimate Protein Pancake RecipeThe Stuffed Potatoes Hangover CureOne too many shots last night? Restore those depleted nutrients with essential electrolytes. Cure those greasy fat cravings with healthier fats like cashews and avocado, while protein-rich turkey and black beans give your energy levels a much-needed boost.

      Protein-Rich Stuffed Potatoes

      Recharge with this nutrient-packed spud. Essential electrolytes, healthy fats from cashews and avocado, plus protein-rich turkey and black beans will restore your energy and curb cravings.

      Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes mins

      Course Lunch, Side Dish

      Servings 1 serving

      1 sweet potato125g minced turkey or finely diced breast8 cherry tomatoes1 tsp apple cider vinegar½ tsp garlic finely choppedpinch of chilli powderpinch of smoked paprika½ tsp brown miso paste2 tbsp coconut oil50g black beans3g coriander choppedpinch of salt and pepperGuacamole½ avocado½ lime juiced3g coriander choppedpinch of salt and pepperfresh red chilli a few thin slices to garnishCashew Cream50g raw cashews½ tsp tahini1 lemon juicedpinch of salt and pepper
      Soak the cashews in a bowl with boiling water for 20 minutes.Wash then bake the potato at 180°C for 45 minutes until completely cooked through. Whilst the potato is baking, slowly heat the coconut oil in a pan and add the garlic and turkey, gently cook for 5 minutes. Then add the beans, chilli, paprika, vinegar, miso, salt, pepper and cook for a further 10 minutes on a low heat. Take off the heat and add the chopped coriander.Cashew cream: drain the cashews and blend all the ingredients together in a blender or Nutri-bullet until smooth.Guacamole: spoon out the flesh from the avocado and mash it in a small bowl with a fork and then mix in the remaining ingredients.Halve the baked potato, spoon out 2 tbsp from the middle of each half and add it to the beans and tomatoes, combine and spoon back into the skins.Add a generous spoonful of guacamole and cashew cream on top — don’t forget those fresh chilli slices for an extra kick!

      Keyword Viral Recipes

      READ MORE: Try This Easy One-Pot Chicken, Basil And Tomato Orzo Recipe For Dinner Tonight The Post-Workout Fuel The potassium in the potato helps to prevent lactic acid build-up, which causes muscle cramps. The quinoa and black beans are essential proteins for muscle repair.

      Post-Workout Stuffed Potatoes

      Feeling drained after your workout? This stuffed baked potato is your perfect post-exercise snack. Packed with potassium to prevent muscle cramps and quinoa with black beans for essential protein, it’s designed to aid muscle recovery and replenish your energy.

      Cook Time 43 minutes mins

      Course Snack

      Servings 1 serving

      1 medium baking potato25g quinoa3 dried apricot diced1 hand full fresh parsley½ hand full fresh mint¼ red onion finely diced5 cherry tomatoes halved1 tsp lemon juice1 tsp apple cider vinegar1 tsp extra virgin olive oil¼ can can black beans rinsed2 tbsp tomato sauce2 tsp mayonnaise you can use vegan mayo1 spring onion dicedsproats for toppingpinch of sea salt and pepper
      Bake the potato at 180*C for 45 minutes until completely cooked through. Whilst the potato is baking boil the quinoa for 10 – 15 minutes until done, then drain.Finely chop the parsley and the mint and mix with the quinoa along with the apricot, tomatoes, onion, lemon juice, vinegar and olive oil — combine.Halve the potato and and top with the quinoa mixture, some tomato sauce, black beans, mayonnaise, spring onion and sproats.

      Keyword Viral Recipes

      Editor-Approved Potato Flight Combos:Our editors are all in on the potato flight trend and these are the combos we’re currently obsessed with:Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini, Editor: Caramelised onions and mushrooms with finely chopped red, yellow and green peppers, spicy mince and a gooey cheese topping.Kelleigh Korevaar, Managing Editor: Think disco fries with a twist—spring onion, creamy chilli sauce, mozzarella and maybe a bit of crispy bacon for that extra protein boost.Michelle October, Features Editor: A mix of chicken mayo, green onion, spinach, chilli flakes and crispy onions on top for crunch.Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor: Aromat and sour cream on a baked potato, always a win. But to elevate it, try taco-spiced mince, guacamole, sour cream and a fresh salsa salad. Pure bliss!Looking for more recipes? More

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      in diet and nutrition

      43 Protein-Packed Chicken Variations Every Fit Girl Will Love

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      The humble, reliable chicken is protein-packed… but can get boring, fast. To the rescue, we’ve got a whopping 43 chicken variations to spice things up.

      Chomping on a skinless, boneless chicken breast gives you 23 muscle-building grams of protein for the bargain price of a single gram of saturated fat and 460kJ – and that brings you one step closer to tight abs and lean thighs. The problem? This omnipresent piece of poultry is… not that thrilling.

      The solution: 43 fabulous makeovers for your average chicken breast. Each mix uses just a few easy ingredients that are probably in your kitchen already, and none take longer than 25 minutes. Try a few. The next time you say something tastes like chicken, it’ll be a compliment.

      Image by Mariam Antadze on Pexels

      Epic stir-fried chicken variations

      The Basics

      For stir-fry, cut a raw chicken breast into bite-size pieces or thin strips. Cook it in a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat until browned (three to five minutes). Add one of the following groups of ingredients – in the order listed – and cook for five more minutes, stirring frequently.

      Pick your flavour combos:

      Bell Pepper Mix: 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 cup green or red bell pepper strips; 1/4 medium onion, cut lengthwise into strips; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

      Veggie Blend: 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1/3 c matchstick carrots; 1/3 c chopped celery; 1 spring onion, sliced; 2 Tbsp chopped unsalted peanuts

      Asparagus and Cashew: 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 c asparagus tips; 2 Tbsp chopped unsalted cashews

      Sweet Lemon: 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce; 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp honey; 1 clove garlic, crushed; 1/2 c mangetout; 1 c chopped celery

      Asian Broccoli: 1 whisked egg; 1/2 c (or more) chopped broccoli; 1/4 medium onion, cut lengthwise into long strips; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

      Hoisin Mangetout: 1 whisked egg; 1/2 c mangetout; 1/2 c green or red bell pepper strips; 1/4 onion, cut lengthwise into long strips; 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce

      Flavour tip:

      Sesame oil gives stir-fries a distinct flavour. Nutritionally, it’s similar to olive oil because it’s full of heart-healthy unsaturated fats. (Make sure you get plain, not toasted sesame oil.) But if you don’t have it, use canola or peanut oil, not olive, which goes up in smoke at high temperatures.

      READ MORE: This Cape Malay Stuffed Linefish Is Simple And Delicious

      Delish baked chicken variations

      The Basics

      Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and douse your chicken in sauce, rub it with spices, crust it with goodies or stuff it with savouries. Bake, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes.

      Sauce things up

      Watery baths like salsa will do just fine in the oven. But thicker sauces must be mixed with water or stock or you’ll be left with sticky, blackened char. Use a small baking dish with raised sides to keep the meat swimming.

      Fiesta: 1/3 cup salsa

      Italian: 2 Tbsp marinara sauce, 2 Tbsp water

      Honey Mustard: 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 Tbsp honey, 1 tsp olive oil

      Spiced Up: 3 Tbsp chicken stock; 1 Tbsp mustard; 1 clove garlic, crushed

      Cream of Mushroom: 2 Tbsp condensed mushroom soup, 2 Tbsp water

      Pesto: 2 Tbsp pesto, 2 Tbsp reduced-sodium chicken stock

      Sweet and Sour: 2 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 c crushed pineapple with juice

      Coconut Curry: 3 Tbsp chicken stock, 2 Tbsp light coconut milk, 1/4 tsp curry powder

      Apple Glaze: 1/3 c chicken stock, 1 Tbsp maple syrup, 1 Tbsp apple juice

      Herbed Citrus: 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 Tbsp orange marmalade, 1/4 tsp rosemary

      Rubbed recipes

      Rub these mixtures evenly over each breast, then coat with cooking spray.

      Chilli Covered: 1/4 tsp each garlic powder, chilli powder, black pepper and oregano; salt to taste

      Tri-Herb Rub: 1/4 tsp each dried basil, rosemary and thyme; salt and pepper to taste

      READ MORE: 6 Delicious Winter Soup Recipes – Plus Sides!

      Crusted bakes

      Crack an egg into a shallow bowl, whisk it, dip the chicken in it, and then roll the chicken in a plate of one of these coatings:

      Nut Covered: 1/3 c finely chopped nuts

      Italian Topped: 1 Tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese, 1 Tbsp Italian breadcrumbs, a pinch of black pepper

      Faux Fried: 1/2 c crushed corn or bran flakes

      Stuffed chicken ideas

      Pound the daylights out of your chicken breast with a meat tenderiser until it’s uniformly thin. Then arrange any of the following ingredients on the breast, roll it up and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

      Ham and Cheese: 1 slice Cheddar cheese, 2 slices deli ham, 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Stromboli: 1 slice mozzarella cheese; 3 slices pepperoni; 3 leaves fresh basil, chopped

      Pizza: 1 slice mozzarella; 1/4 c chopped tomatoes; 3 leaves fresh basil, chopped

      Spinach Stuffed: 1 small handful baby spinach leaves, chopped; 1 Tbsp blue-cheese crumbles; 1 clove garlic, crushed

      Deli Style: 1 slice mozzarella, 1 slice salami, 1 Tbsp chopped roasted red pepper

      Sun-dried Tomato: 1 1/2 Tbsp low-fat ricotta cheese, 1 Tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 tsp oregano

      Mediterranean: 1 1/2 Tbsp low-fat ricotta cheese, 1 Tbsp diced olives, 1/4 tsp lemon zest

      Parmesan Pesto: 1 Tbsp pesto, 1 Tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Flavour tip:

      To lock in juices, sear the breast in a hot pan for one to two minutes per side before baking.

      READ MORE: This Healthy Cauliflower Risotto Is A Winter Dream

      Image by Gerald Jake Abangan on Pexels

      Grilled chicken variations

      The Basics

      Soak the chicken in these marinades for at least an hour. Heat a grill or place a non-stick pan over medium-high heat on the stove. Cook for three to five minutes per side.

      Booze Infused: 2 Tbsp bourbon, 1 tsp deli-style mustard, 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Sweet Booze Infused: 2 Tbsp bourbon; 1 tsp honey; 1 clove garlic, crushed

      White Wine Dressed: 2 Tbsp white wine; 1 clove garlic, crushed; 1/4 tsp thyme

      Rich and Creamy: 2 Tbsp plain yoghurt, 1/4 tsp dill

      Curry Cream: 2 Tbsp plain yoghurt, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp curry powder

      Margaritaville: 2 Tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp coriander

      Cumin and Lime: 2 Tbsp lime juice, 1/4 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

      Lemon Zest: 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp lemon zest, 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Balsamic Herb: 2 Tbsp vinaigrette, 1/4 tsp rosemary

      Ginger Spiced: 2 Tbsp orange juice, 1/4 tsp powdered ginger, 1/4 tsp coriander

      O-juiced: 2 Tbsp orange juice, 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

      Soda Popped: 2 Tbsp Coca-Cola, 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Red Pepper Pop: 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

      Hawaiian Punch: 2 Tbsp pineapple juice; 1 clove garlic, crushed; 1/4 tsp black pepper

      Flavour tip

      Mix the marinade ingredients well in a resealable plastic bag, drop in the chicken, seal, shake and refrigerate. More

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      in diet and nutrition

      Make This Cold-Fighting Lettuce, Fennel & Pea Soup If You’re Feeling Under The Weather

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      Whether you’re sick or just plain sick of the frosty temps and in search of winter soups for cold weather, we’ve got you covered. This pea soup recipe has antioxidants, including vitamin C, which help fight disease-causing free radicals. And we can’t get enough of this delicious, vibrant, green soup.

      “Salad isn’t the only way to serve lettuce in a bowl – here, it lightens up pea soup and adds some texture to make every spoonful extra satisfying,” says Giada De Laurentiis, creator of this pea soup recipe.

      READ MORE: 3 Comforting Soups That’ll Boost Your Immune System

      Why This Pea Soup Recipe Is Great For Colds

      It’s packed with antioxidants: Peas are packed with antioxidants, like vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, catechin and epicatechin. These antioxidants help build your immune system so you’re better able to avoid the sniffles. Fresh fennel bulb is also a good source of vitamin C which is critical for immune health.

      It is hydrating: Lettuce is super hydrating. When you’re sick you’re always encouraged to stay hydrated and drink plenty of liquids. And because water makes up over 95% of raw lettuce it’s a great booster booster.

      It’ll help you feel better: So there actually is a real reason people suggest you eat soup when you’re sick. The sodium in soup may act in a similar way to gargling warm salt water and help relieve sore throat pain. Plus, the heat helps clear nasal congestion and can relieve pain and sinus pressure. And of course, with all the veggies we tend to pack into soups, the nutrient-dense nature of soups may help, too.

      READ MORE: This Aubergine Curry Is The Ultimate Winter Comfort Meal

      3 Amazing Blenders You Should Make Your Winter Soups With

      Smeg Hand Blender

      This retro-styled set chops, blends, whisks and mashes. Plus, immersion blenders allow you to blend directly in your pot which means less dishes.

      Nutribullet Blender Combo

      Jug blenders make dumping and blending soups so easy. This one is especially great as you can use it while sauces and soups are still hot (no waiting for it to cool).

      Smartlife Soup Maker

      Five pre-programmed settings and powerful blades easily liquify veg, while a heating plate warms the contents inside. Hardly any dirty dishes thanks to this nifty gadget.

      READ MORE: Are Wellness Shots With Turmeric, Ginger, Or ACV Actually Good For You? A Dietician Weighs In

      Try One Of Our Favourite Winter Soups For Colds

      Cold-Fighting Lettuce, Fennel & Pea Soup Recipe

      Giada De Laurentiis

      Adapted from Giada’s Feel Good Food: My Healthy Recipes and Secrets, this pea soup recipe has antioxidants, including vitamin C, which help fight disease-causing free radicals. Per serving: 731kJ, 9g fat (5g sat), 18g carbs, 6g sugar, 289mg sodium, 6g fibre, 7g protein.

      Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes mins

      Course SoupCuisine Healthy

      Servings 4 peopleCalories 175 kcal

      3 Tbsp Unsalted butter1 bulb Fennel, chopped, fronds reserved for garnish2 large Shallots, chopped1 head Bibb or butter lettuce, cut into 1cm-wide strips280 grams Frozen baby peas1½ cups Low-sodium chicken stock¾ tsp Fennel seeds½ tsp Kosher salt½ tsp Freshly ground black pepper
      Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add fennel and shallots. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften (about six minutes).Add lettuce and stir until it wilts (one to two minutes). Mix in peas, stock and one cup water and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until vegetables are just tender (about five minutes).Transfer to a blender, add fennel seeds and purée until smooth. Return soup to the pot over a low heat. Add the salt and pepper and thin with water if needed. Once heated, ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fennel fronds.

      Keyword comfort food, Easy Meals, healthy soup, Pea Soup, soup, vegetarian

      Per serving: 731kJ, 9g fat (5g sat), 18g carbs, 6g sugar, 289mg sodium, 6g fibre, 7g protein. More

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      6 Healthy Homemade Pizza Recipes To Take Your Slice To The Next Level

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      If you auto-dial your local pizza place once a week, you’re not alone: according to a Euromonitor International Consumer Foodservice report a few years back, pizza is South Africa’s best-loved takeaway/home delivery fast food, with double the sales figures of any other takeaway. The problem: our fave fast food is loaded with fat and sodium.

      But don’t forgo this tasty and convenient meal option altogether. “The right toppings can transform this fattening grease bomb into a healthy meal,” says dietician Keri Gans, author of The Small Change Diet.

      “When making a pizza, use plenty of tomato-based sauce (you can add chilli, basil or chives for more flavour) and veggies,” suggests WH weight-loss advisor Elienne Horwitz. “Then lightly sprinkle mozzarella or feta over it.” Top a shop-bought wholewheat crust or cheeseless build-your-own takeaway with one of these waist-cinching combos

      Parma ham and goat’s cheese pizza

      Hold the sausage. “Parma ham is much leaner and provides the same meaty satisfaction without all the kilojoules or grease,” says Gans. Trade mozzarella for goat’s cheese or feta and you’ll get a mouthful of creamy goodness and 11 percent fewer kilojoules.

      Make It

      Layer one slice ready-made pizza base with half a cup diced tomato and half a cup chopped rocket. Top with 14g thinly sliced Parma ham. Sprinkle with one tablespoon crumbled goat’s cheese or feta and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle with one teaspoon extra virgin olive oil and bake in a 190°C oven for five to seven minutes, or until cheese melts.

      Per slice: 1 254kJ, 26g fat (5g sat), 700mg sodium, 30g carbs, 15g fibre, 13g protein

      Ricotta-pear pizza

      If you like your slice on the sweet side, there’s another option besides Hawaiian-style (that’s pineapple and ham for the uninitiated). Try some non-fat ricotta sweetened with orange marmalade, a touch of honey and slices of fibre-filled pear for a healthy meal that tastes like it could be dessert.

      Make It

      Spread two teaspoons orange marmalade over one slice ready-made pizza base. Top with a quarter cup non-fat ricotta and spread well to cover. Top with a third of a thinly sliced Bosc pear. Drizzle with one teaspoon honey and bake in a 190°C oven for five to seven minutes, or until warmed through.

      Per slice: 1 254kJ, 5g fat (1g sat), 310mg sodium, 54g carbs, 6g fibre, 10g protein

      READ MORE: Umm, These Vegan Pizzas Might Even Taste Better Than The Real Thing

      Greek pizza

      “Feta on pizza is a really smart choice,” says Gans. “You only need a little to get a lot of flavour, which results in a huge kilojoule saving.” Then there’s a generous serving of veggies, including roasted red peppers and rosa tomatoes, which dish up more than 40 percent of your daily vitamin C.

      Make It

      Top one slice ready-made pizza base with two tablespoons drained roasted red peppers, five halved rosa tomatoes, five halved pitted kalamata olives and one teaspoon feta-cheese crumbles. Bake in a 190°C oven for five to seven minutes, or until cheese melts.

      Per slice: 1 090kJ, 12g fat (3g sat), 710mg sodium, 32g carbs, 6g fibre, 8g protein

      Image by Freepik

      Barbecue chicken pizza

      You don’t have to weigh down your slice with chorizo or extra cheese to score a hearty serving of satiating protein. A reduced-fat hard cheese such as Slimmer’s Choice Cheddar, Gouda or mozzarella (around 13 percent less fat than regular cheese) and skinless white meat chicken with a coating of tangy barbecue sauce keeps you satisfied – so you won’t be tempted to polish off the rest of the pizza by yourself.

      Make It

      Toss a third of a cup cubed grilled chicken breasts and two tablespoons diced red onion with one tablespoon barbecue sauce. Spread evenly over one slice ready-made pizza base. Sprinkle with one teaspoon grated reduced-fat cheese. Bake in a 190°C oven for five to seven minutes, or until cheese melts.

      Per slice: 1 212kJ, 9g fat (2g sat), 500mg sodium, 32g carbs, 4g fibre, 22g protein

      READ MORE: Exactly How To Make The Perfect Pizza On The Braai

      Cheesy fennel and courgette pizza

      Fennel is one of the ingredients that give Italian sausage its distinctive taste. Sprinkle it, fresh or dried, onto your pizza and you’ll get the flavour you crave minus all that unwanted fat and bloat-inducing sodium.

      Make It

      Sauté half a cup diced fennel, three-quarters of a cup grated courgette and a pinch of chilli flakes with one teaspoon olive oil in a small pot over medium heat for five minutes, or until fennel softens. Spread over one slice ready-made pizza base. Sprinkle with two tablespoons reduced-fat grated mozzarella cheese melts. Bake in a 190°C oven for five to seven minutes, or until cheese melts.

      Per slice: 1 090kJ, 12g fat (3g sat), 370mg sodium, 32g carbs, 6g fibre, 11g protein

      Spinach salad pizza

      You could order a side salad with your pizza – or you can just pile your greens on top instead. This combo features crumbled goat’s cheese, which adds a big kick of robust flavour for a fraction of the fat you’d get from a standard mozzarella-loaded piece. And best of all, there’s zero cooking required.

      Make It

      Toss one cup baby spinach with half a cup sliced red grapes, one teaspoon pine nuts, one tablespoon crumbled goat’s cheese and one tablespoon light balsamic vinaigrette. Top one slice ready-made pizza base with the salad.

      Per slice: 1 200kJ, 10g fat (3g sat), 590g sodium, 45g carbs, 6g fibre, 8g protein

      Pro Tips

      Next time you eat out, try one of these kilojoule-shaving tricks, courtesy of WH weight-loss expert Elienne Horwitz

      Ask for your pizza to be made with half the usual amount of cheese – or even better, order a cheeseless pizza and top with a cheese that contains less fat, like feta.

      Opt for a thin crust over the regular kind – this simple trick can reduce your carbs from two servings per slice to one.

      Order a cheeseless pizza and sprinkle your slice with one tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese.

      Shrink your portion by sharing a pizza with a friend and ordering a side salad to bulk up the meal – eat the salad first so it fills you before you tuck into the pizza.

      Bulk up your toppings with veggies like broccoli, asparagus, artichoke, cauliflower, spinach, peppers, tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, aubergine, mushrooms and onions as they contain micronutrients and will fill you up. More

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      11 Avo Toast Recipes That’ll Fill You Up For Less Than 350 Calories

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      Is there anything more satisfying than avocado toast? These 11 variations—crafted by the Rodale Test Kitchen—will tantalise your tastebuds while packing in plenty of nutrients (avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats). Whether you’re craving something salty or sweet, there’s an option that’ll please every palate.

      1. Cucumber-Dill

      Top a slice of multigrain grain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced, 1/4 cup cucumber slices and 1 Tbsp fresh chopped dill. Serves 1.

      Nutrition information (per serving): 257 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 4g sugar, 12g fat, 1.5g sat fat, 156mg sodium

      2. Elvis

      Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, top with 1/4 cup sliced banana and 1 Tbsp crushed peanuts. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 257 calories, 8g protein, 30g carbs, 8g fibre, 7g sugar, 14g fat, 2g sat fat, 154mg sodium

      3. Strawberry-Mint

      Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, then top with 2 sliced strawberries and a few thinly sliced mint leaves. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 170 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 9g fat, 1g sat fat, 154mg sodium

      READ MORE: You Can Whip Up These High-Protein Bagels For Half The Calories Fast

      4. Everything Bagel

      Slather a piece of multigrain toast with 2 Tbsp cream cheese, then top with 1/4 cup cubed avocado and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp each poppy seeds and toasted sesame seeds. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 287 calories, 7g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 21g fat, 7g sat fat, 247mg sodium

      5. Lox & Eggs

      Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 sliced hard-boiled egg and 28g flaked smoked salmon. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 334 calories kilojoules, 29g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 3g sugar, 17g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 239mg sodium

      6. Nicoise Salad

      Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1/2 a can of drained tuna in water, flaked. Sprinkle with 1 tsp drained capers and the juice from 1/4 lemon. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 223 calories, 18g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 2g sugar,9 g fat, 1g sat fat, 446mg sodium

      READ MORE: These Flax Energy Bites Will Keep You Fuelled Until Your Next Meal

      7. Bruschetta

      Top 1 slice multigrain toast with 1/4 cup diced tomato, 1 Tbsp diced red onion and 1/4 avocado, diced. Drizzle with 2 tsp balsamic vinegar. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 168 calories, 5g protein, 22g carbs, 6g fibre, 5g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 158mg sodium

      8. Pomegranate-Almond

      Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 Tbsp sliced toasted almonds and 1 Tbsp pomegranate seeds. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 189 calories, 6g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 10g fat, 1g sat fat, 153mg sodium

      9. Goat Cheese-Pecan

      Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 14g crumbled goat cheese and 1 Tbsp chopped toasted pecans. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 231 calories, 8g protein, 19g carbs, 6g fibre, 3g sugar, 15g fat, 3g sat fat, 205mg sodium

      READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

      10. Apple Crisp

      Shingle slices from 1/4 red apple and 1/4 avocado over 1 slice multigrain toast. Drizzle with 2 tsp honey and sprinkle with pinch of cinnamon. Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 213 calories, 5g protein, 36g carbs, 6g fibre, 18g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 154mg sodium

      11. Breakfast “Sandwich”

      Top a slice of multigrain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced. Add a slice of bacon and a fried egg. Drizzle with 1 tsp of sriracha (or more to taste). Serves 1.

      Nutrition Information (per serving): 292 calories, 17g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 16g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 582mg sodium

      READ MORE: Avocado Is One Of The Most Versatile Fruits You Can Cook With

      This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

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      The 2 Best Office Lunches You Can Prepare Ahead Of Time

      by

      Working towards financial year-end deadlines and lacking lunch inspiration? Try these three delicious, nutritious, easy-to-pack meals.

      Bowl Them Over

      If you’d rather eat takeaways than brave the mystery splatters inside the shared office microwave, this hearty, best-served-cold bowl is your answer. Toss with dressing the night before and the flavours should achieve perfection just in time for your afternoon meal.

      Serves 1: Per serving: 1 504kJ, 7g fat (1g sat), 50g carbs, 490mg sodium, 3g fibre, 23g protein

      Asian-Style Salad Bowl

      Calories 359 kcal

      1 cup shredded Chinese cabbage1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil1 cup cooked rice noodles85g cooked chicken breast2 tsp low-sodium soy saucePinch chilli flakesToasted sesame seeds1 squeeze lime juice1 tbsp finely chopped spring onions
      Sauté cabbage in olive oil over medium heat for one minute and set aside.Top rice noodles with chicken. Add in the cabbage and the rest of the ingredients. Toss to combine and refrigerate overnight.

      Mepal Bento Lunch Box Large Nordic White

      Bento boxes are all the rage at the moment and what could be a cooler way to pack your new lunches than with this stylish choice from Mepal? Plus, if you’re snacking on a few extra fruits or eggs, just pop them into the separate containers.

      Glass container with bamboo lid & spoon

      These glass jars make for a fantastic storage fix for your Asian-inspired salad. Whether you’re in a hurry between meetings and opting for jar-eating convenience or taking a leisurely break, simply flip it into a bowl and indulge!

      Carb Free Lunch

      Collard greens, flat-leaf kale and chard all make for great carb-free tortillas. Remove their stiff backbones and they become pliable, while still holding up to travel (no tearing or sogginess). Add flavour by filling them with crumbly cheeses mixed with crisp vegetables and bright herbs.

      Serves 1: Per serving: 1 212kJ, 17g fat (6g sat), 14g carbs, 510mg sodium, 4g fibre, 21g protein

      Carb-Free Kale Wrap

      Servings 1Calories 289 kcal

      2 large kale leaves or collard green leaves4 tbsp hummus2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced2 tbsp grated carrots1 radish, finely sliced2 tbsp chopped roasted red peppers2 tsp finely chopped Italian parsley2 tsp crumbled feta
      With a paring knife, shave the thick spine from the two leaves, being careful not to cut into the leaves.Flip the leaves over and spread hummus on each “wrap”.Divide the rest of the ingredients among the two wraps, then fold them like burritos.

      Try these 3 high-protein breakfast recipes every active girl needs in her life. Plus: 20 of the best healthy snacks for weight loss. More

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      This Salmon Sandwich Is The Health-Boosting Desk Lunch You Need

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      This salmon sandwich, which channels the Swedish way of eating, is here to boost your desk lunch – and your health. Fact: Sweden boasts low obesity and high life expectancy, which has a lot to do with lifestyle. They eat a lot of this type of salmon, a cured version called gravlax. And it’s got a ton of benefits: it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein and B vitamins and contains naturally healthy bacteria that fuel your immunity.

      Here’s a salmon sandwich to ensure you eat like a Swede and reap the benefits. Prepare all these, then layer on rye bread – or whichever loaf you fancy. You’ll be making the salmon, a cucumber salad and a mustard sauce. Layer them all on your loaf of choice and enjoy over and over again.

      Salmon Gravlax

      You’ll need to cure the salmon before placing it on your chosen bread. These easy steps take you there.

      Prep Time 2 days d

      Course Lunch, Main Course, Side DishCuisine French, Healthy, Sandwich

      Servings 8Calories 99 kcal

      400 g Norwegian salmon, deboned, skin on1 tbsp rock salt heaped1 tbsp sugar heaped0.5 lemon, zested0.5 tsp peppercorns white or black1 tbsp dill finely chopped
      Spread clingfilm on a work surface and place one piece of salmon on it, skin-side down.Spread the salt mixture (rest of the ingredients) on top and cover with the second piece of fish, skin-side up.Wrap tightly, place on a baking sheet, cover with foil and top with another baking sheet.Place tins on top to weigh it down and refrigerate for two days, turning every 12 hours. To serve, gently rinse off the salt mixture with water, pat the salmon dry with paper towel and slice it wafer thin. Arrange on thin slices of rye bread and top with cucumber salad.

      Keyword Easy Meals, fish, Salmon, Sandwich

      READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

      Cucumber salad

      Pair this delicious cucumber salad with your salmon on your ‘wich.

      Prep Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes mins

      Course Appetizer, Salad, Side DishCuisine Healthy

      ½ English CucumberSalt2 tbsp White wine vinegar2 tbsp Water½ tsp sugarBlack pepper freshly ground1 tbsp dill finely chopped
      Slice the cucumber wafer-thin, spread out in a colander, sprinkle with salt and leave for 30 minutes.Rinse and drain.Add the remaining ingredients to the cucumber and toss well.

      Keyword cucumber salad

      READ MORE: 6 Health Benefits Of Kombucha You Should Know About, According To Dieticians

      Mustard Sauce

      This zingy mustard sauce complements the salty fish perfectly and you’ll want to use it in other dishes, too.

      Cook Time 20 minutes mins

      Course Side DishCuisine Healthy, Sandwich

      1 tbsp English mustard1 tbsp Lemon juice½ tsp White wine vinegar1 tbsp sugar¼ to ⅓ cup cream
      Add all the ingredients except the cream to the pot, heat over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar.Add the cream, bring to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced and thickened.

      Keyword mustard, sauce More